History of the Forest City Velodrome

The Forest City Velodrome went from concept to reality in just a little over four months. Late in 2004, Rob Good and Albert Coulier presented the idea of an indoor track to be built in the south end of London. In April 2005, cyclists were enjoying riding on the track. This exciting initiative brought together business, community and government partners to finance, build and run a 138-metre indoor cycling track. The Forest City Velodrome is one of only three indoor velodromes in North America.

Designed by Albert Coulier, the track is located in the former Ice House hockey arena in the south end of London (click here for directions to the track). Coulier's company, Apollo Velodrome Systems, has constructed dozens of tracks over the decades, including Olympic and world championship tracks in Montreal, Pan Am tracks in Winnipeg and other temporary tracks in arenas in Canada and the United States.

The track itself is owned by individuals holding shares in a public corporation. A not-for-profit organization, the Forest City Velodrome Association, operates the races, clinics and other activities at the track. Businesses and members of the public can become involved by owning shares in the track itself; donating to the not-for-profit corporation; becoming a partner; or volunteering time to help run learn-to-race and other development programs.

From the beginner to the elite level, track cycling offers thrills and excitement for both athletes and spectators alike. Development programs are offered to bring new, young Canadian talent into the sport, while elite athletes can train indoors during the winter to prepare for an international competitive schedule that culminates in the World Championships in February of each year. Click here to find out about the various races and other programs at the track.

Spectators are treated to a venue with over 3,000 seats, each one providing a close-up view of a wide variety of races that can easily reach speeds in excess of 60 kilometres per hour. Find out more about what to watch for as a spectator by clicking here.

The Forest City Velodrome needs your help to offer programs and maintain an on-going schedule of events. Click here to learn how you can help contribute to the track.